tarbikooperatiiv

Tarbikooperatiiv, often translated as consumer cooperative, is a form of business organization owned and democratically controlled by its members, who are also its customers. The primary purpose of a tarbikooperatiiv is to provide goods and services to its members at the best possible terms, often aiming for quality and affordability rather than maximizing profit for external shareholders. Members typically join by purchasing a share or making a small investment, which grants them ownership rights and voting power.

The operational principles of a tarbikooperatiiv are based on the cooperative movement's seven international principles. These include voluntary and open membership, democratic member control, member economic participation, autonomy and independence, education, training and information, cooperation among cooperatives, and concern for community. Profits generated by a tarbikooperatiiv are often reinvested in the business, distributed back to members as patronage refunds based on their purchasing activity, or used for community initiatives. This model fosters a sense of collective ownership and shared benefit among its participants. Tarbikooperatiivs can operate in various sectors, including retail, grocery, housing, and services.